re: Aluminum wiring in home

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While it is more risky than copper, the 50x number can seriously be mitigated by proper connections. Aluminum got a bad rap In the 60s and 70s when there was a copper shortage, lots of people went to aluminum, and didn’t change the install methods.

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Even with modern installs, you don't want to use aluminum wire for small power circuits like what a home has. These small circuits can see high amp draw, short term loads like hair dryers, compressors, etc. The high amp loads cause the aluminum to expand and then when it cools it contracts. Doing this many times over the years causes aluminum to work itself free at the terminals creating fire hazards. If you use aluminum wire, it is going to happen.

Most of the time, engineers won't spec or allow the use of aluminum for circuits less than 100A (at least I wouldn't when I'm stamping drawings). Using aluminum on larger feeders to things like panels, switchboards, switchgear, etc. is fine because these circuits have lots of diversity and rarely see enough current to heat them up and the dont go all the way down to zero load leading to cooler temps.